The theme of this year's Ridgewood's Jamboree, "It's a Shore Thing," has kept warmth in our days. Wearing bathing suits, shorts and T-shirts helped us forget the weather outside. Jamboree cast members are looking forward to sharing the warmth and fun with our audiences.

For nine cast members, this year's show is our Final Bow: our youngest child will be graduating Ridgewood High School (RHS) - no way to comprehend where the time has gone. Most of us remember these kids' first days of kindergarten. A few of us have known each other since preschool. Not only are our children getting ready to graduate and move on, but so are we! There are lots of emotions as we end our run with Jamboree - excitement, sadness, relief.

For more than 10 years, Chris LaBarbiera has been Jamboree's business manager. He joined the cast on stage several years ago when his older daughter was a senior. This year he came back to be on stage one last time. Although he is a bit sad, he will continue his role as business manager. When we asked him why he did not join Jamboree's cast every year, he reminded us that as a CPA, this is a very "taxing" time of year! We are grateful to have Chris' humor and enthusiasm in this year's production.

Ann Roberts told me that she did not consider this an ending, because she expects her very close friendships in this community will last forever. All the people she has met through the years have been so supportive and she cherishes these special relationships. And Ann is not sad about seeing her singing and dancing career come to an end. (I get you Ann - me too!)

Nick and Linda Lewis are one of the husband-and-wife teams to share the Jamboree experience together. They have been incredibly active through the years, including a stint as producers - this journey was a way to grow as individuals by having their "envelope pushed." They are involved with production of the journal and will continue in coming years. Linda and Nick might be sad to be leaving RHS, but excited about new adventures ahead.

One of the moms I have known since our kids were in preschool together, Eleanor Sophia, enjoyed watching the show before joining the cast. She feels, as many of us do, that it's a privilege to be part of this wonderful effort to raise money for scholarships for our seniors: "The thrill of appearing onstage coupled with the camaraderie of the cast is unmatched," she said. Eleanor also has high praise for all the people who volunteer tremendous time and energy behind the scenes.

Kathy Law and Donna Valenti-Petryshyn have graduating senior girls. They have been an integral part of Jamboree for many years. They relate to the mixed emotions about this Final Bow. Donna has been part of the backstage heroics as well as on stage.

We are all amazed that our youngest children are going off to college. We will all cherish our Jamboree memories.

Barb Bekkedahl is both a Newbie and taking a Final Bow this year. She enjoyed the show from the audience, but decided to seize her final opportunity to be in the show this year. "I definitely have a new appreciation for performers!" she said. Bekkedahl's experience was challenging but enjoyable as she learned new songs and dances. "The people have all been super supportive, and that's been the best part," she said.

As for myself, bittersweet emotions go through me as I prepare my costumes, makeup, shoes and all the little things I will need for the show. Next January will be a quiet one after the past seven years, but I know I will come back to help in some way. It is hard to imagine not supporting such a good cause.

At least 27 of our seniors have applied for the Jamboree scholarship this year. How gratifying it will be to know that I played a small part in raising the money they will receive. I may shed a tear or two during the senior parents' number, but I will end this run with treasured memories, great friends and a sense of awe that Jamboree will continue to present future shows to entertain us.